But what is the general rights of a photographer in Europe, when it concerns privacy infringement and such?

I was walking about the other day in a park taking a few snaps, and was thinking that technically I am taking pictures of people as they go about without consent. Not intended though, but sometime you see people do things that would make for a nice picture. Are we allowed to do that?

And what about is the steps we can take to protect ourselves, from a legal point of view. When is the authorities allowed to confiscate your equipment?

Broadly speaking you need permission to take photographs in private places, (could include shopping malls) and permission of anyone included in the images. In public places you are free to photograph anything.

Lens 5: Currently looking to upgrade my lens equipment since upgrading the body

Flashgun: Speedlite

Camera Bag/Rucksack: Lowepro Pro Roller 200

Image Processing Software: Gimp 2.4

Re: Rights of Photographers

Interesting topic. I am just wondering if anyone has had any experiences in N Z (or Australia) which they would like to relate.
I am not taking photographs for commercial purposes, but I do carry a model release form, just in case I am confronted by someone who objects to their photgraph being taken. I would offer them the release and if they still object, I would offer to delete the photo. As said in the article referred to above, whatever the photographers rights, it is probably not worth standing the ground in the face of an altercation or risking damaged gear.
Just my thoughts
David

Only commercial restriction I came across in Oz was at Uluru-Kata Tjuta where, due to cultural sensitivities, shots of specific spots were discouraged - though not much mention was made to non-commercial visitors